Should You Fight Back?

There is a significant amount of information written about this question on the web.  There is some great advise out there and some that has not kept up with modern study and research.  Although I may come at this question from a martial arts perspective, you may be surprised to find we are not that far apart when compared to what schools and counselors seek to achieve including a zero tolerance policy to fighting.

Gichin Funakoshi, one of the founders of the modern martial arts, is often been quoted as saying:

"The ultimate aim or karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants . . . to subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest skill."

There is no question the longer you practice an effective martial art the more competent you potentially become at being able to defend yourself.  That said, for the true martial artist, it's not about being tough and winning fights but rather about developing moral character through hard, dedicated training.  The longer you train, the more your self esteem and confidence will grow.  

I recall reading a story several years ago of an experienced martial arts Sensei (teacher) who found himself confronted by several belligerent men who had just left a bar.  The men circled the Sensei looking for a fight.  The Sensei began preparing himself mentally to defend himself.  He then thought of what advise he would have given to his students in the situation and decided to run like hell!  Was the Sensei capable of defending himself?  Of course, but he reasoned that several of the men and possibly himself could be seriously hurt.  He didn't have to prove himself and he had the strength of character to chose not to fight.

Each circumstance will dictate how one reacts to a bullying situation.  Yes, there is a time to stand up for yourself and there is a time to choose other alternatives.  When you have the confidence to defend yourself you are better able to remain calm and make the appropriate decision.  If martial arts training becomes a consideration for you or your children I will deal with how to find the right school in a later posting.